You might be surprised to learn that several of West Vancouver’s heritage buildings have been relocated. They were once at the end of the road and a stop on the PGE railway line. Steps led from the railway tracks to Sandy Cove beach, where The Black Cat convenience store sold refreshments, ice cream, and toys. Later, the store was lifted to the level of the railway station for better visibility. This was achieved with a heavy timber framework, which was eventually filled in with floors and walls, creating the five-story building you see today.
WHAT IS THE BLACK CAT?
This iconic property, historic but not designated so, is a local landmark known for generations as 'THE BLACK CAT'. Originally constructed in 1922 as a grocery store and tea room, at the then terminus of Marine Drive, it has undergone many face lifts, extensions and renovations over the years and is in remarkably good condition for its age. The lower edge of the property faces on prestigious Radcliffe Avenue and adjoins West Bay beach. The rare C1 zoned lot has subdivision potential. The 6628 sq ft building has five ocean facing levels, the top two being the owners' home (with an incredible view over English Bay) and the lower levels a mix of commercial and residential units. This property has only changed hands only five times over the past 102 years and offers extraordinary opportunities to perceptive and savvy new owners.
WHAT WAS THE BLACK CAT?
The original developer of the building was a company called J.B.Kerr & Caledonian Realty Co. There is some speculation that the building was moved from North Vancouver. The original store was probably very small and oriented from E to W. Originally, it served as a tea house and grocery store, run by Mrs. Lochead and Mr. Gillis. Subsequently, the building hosted various ventures, including the 'Wadsley' post-office, a polling station and an antique store. Over the years it was the official meeting place for local clubs like the West Bay Swim Club and a whist club. In 1980 it housed the export office of Teleflex Marine part of a fortune 500 company. More recently, it has housed Green Road Wilderness Expeditions and Global Roamer Corporation. Currently, a tutoring school Stepping Stones occupies one of the lower floors.
WHAT CAN THE BLACK CAT BE?
The buildings historical role as a dramatic family residence and creative space for artistic pursuits is worthy of consideration. Sympathetic enlargement of the building to provide additional residential space on the lower half of the property is likely to be supported by the community provided the original building is preserved.
